2002 Volkswagen Beetle recalls and problems
The 2002 Volkswagen Beetle has 2 safety recalls and 165 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at any Volkswagen dealer.
Recalls may cover only some 2002 Volkswagen Beetle vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.
2002 Volkswagen Beetle recalls
Recall 07V-063: Exterior Lighting
Problem: On certain passenger, wagon, and convertible vehicles equipped with or without cruise control, a brake light switch may malfunction if it was installed incorrectly.
Risk: The brake lights could become inoperative, or remain on. Failure to provide the proper signal when braking could lead to a crash without warning.
Fix: Dealers will install the newly designed brake light switch free of charge. The recall began on april 27, 2007, and will be conducted in several staggered mailings through september 21, 2007. Vehicles within the make, model, and model year of this population may be involved in either this recall or 06v-183, but not both. The remedy is the same for each recall. Volkswagen dealers will apply the remedy based on the VIN number of the vehicle. Owners may contact vw at 1-800-822-8987.
Recall 06V-183: Exterior Lighting
Problem: On certain passenger vehicles equipped with automatic or manual transmissions and cruise controls, a brake light switch on these vehicles may malfunction if it was installed incorrectly during safety recalls 03v-265 or 04v-096.
Risk: The brake lights could become inoperative, or remain on. Failure to provide the proper signal when braking could lead to a crash without warning.
Fix: Dealers will install the newly designed brake light switch free of charge. The recall began on november 27, 2006. Vehicles within the make, model, and model year of this population may be involved in either this recall or 06v-183, but not both. The remedy is the same for each recall. Volkswagen dealers will apply the remedy based on the VIN number of the vehicle. Owners may contact vw at 1-800-822-8987.
2002 Volkswagen Beetle problems reported by owners
| Problem area | Reports | |
|---|---|---|
| Air Bags | 43 | |
| Electrical System | 40 | |
| Power Train | 23 | |
| Engine and Engine Cooling | 23 | |
| Exterior Lighting | 15 | |
| Visibility | 12 | |
| Seat Belts | 12 | |
| Structure | 11 | |
| Service Brakes, Hydraulic | 7 | |
| Vehicle Speed Control | 6 | |
| Unknown or Other | 6 | |
| Equipment | 4 |
Most reported parts
- Power Train › Automatic Transmission — 15
- Structure › Body — 8
- Visibility › Power Window Devices and Controls — 6
- Exterior Lighting › Brake Lights › Switch — 6
- Air Bags › Frontal › Sensor/Control Module — 6
- Power Train › Clutch Assembly — 5
- Air Bags › Side/Window — 4
- Visibility › Sun/Moon Roof Assembly — 4
Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 60,000 miles (median of owner reports).
Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.
Recent 2002 Volkswagen Beetle complaints
Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.
Other Volkswagen Beetle years
Frequently asked questions
Does the 2002 Volkswagen Beetle have any recalls?
Yes — NHTSA lists 2 recalls for the 2002 Volkswagen Beetle: 07V-063 (exterior lighting), 06V-183 (exterior lighting). Not every vehicle is affected, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
What is the most common problem with the 2002 Volkswagen Beetle?
Owners report air bags problems most often (43 reports), followed by electrical system (40). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 60,000 miles.
Are Volkswagen recall repairs free?
Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized Volkswagen dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.